EASA SD SD-2020-01: Superseded by EASA SD-2020-03

What to do

Affected National Aviation Authorities must implement national measures to ensure aircraft operators clean and disinfect aircraft after flights from high-risk airports and equip aircraft with Universal Precaution Kits. Operators may adjust disinfection frequency based on risk assessments but must ensure full disinfection within 24 hours of departure from affected airports. These measures must be in place within seven days from the directive's effective date of 16 March 2020.

Summary

EASA Safety Directive 2020-01 is a safety directive issued under Article 76(6)(b) of Regulation (EU) No 2018/1139 addressing operational measures to prevent the spread of the SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus infection. It applies to aircraft operators certified under Commission Regulation (EU) 965/2012 involved in commercial air transport of passengers, focusing on aircraft operating from airports in high-risk areas for COVID-19 transmission. The directive mandates cleaning and disinfection procedures and the carriage of Universal Precaution Kits on affected aircraft.

What changed

EASA Safety Directive 2020-01 introduces mandatory operational measures requiring aircraft operators to clean and disinfect aircraft after flights from high-risk COVID-19 areas using aviation-approved substances. It also requires operators to equip aircraft with Universal Precaution Kits to protect crew members handling potentially infectious cases. This directive establishes a safety objective for National Aviation Authorities to enforce these measures within seven days of the effective date.

Why it matters

This directive is critical for aviation professionals as it sets enforceable standards to reduce the risk of COVID-19 transmission via contaminated aircraft surfaces and during in-flight operations. Operators, maintenance organizations, and compliance teams must adapt their cleaning protocols and onboard equipment to meet these requirements, ensuring passenger and crew safety amid the pandemic. Compliance helps maintain operational continuity and aligns with public health recommendations.